Prevent hair loss naturally

Alopecia or hair loss afflicts millions of people worldwide- while it may be more noticeable in men, women also face this problem frequently. Normally, a healthy person loses 50 to 100 strands of hair every day, most of which is regenerated by the body. A strand of healthy hair will continue to regenerate in this manner for about three to six years. However, hair loss occurs when you either begin to lose hair at a more rapid rate or your lost hair doesn’t regenerate or grow back. While genetics might play a role, there are natural ways for hair loss prevention that you can adopt – rather than biting your nails silly over going bald or popping a pill a day! One of the easiest ways to tackle your receding hairline is by eating the right foods that prevent hair loss.

Hair Loss causes

Hair loss can have a number of triggers- genetics play a role. Many medications and treatments like chemotherapy can cause hair loss. Poor hair hygiene- severe dandruff and a dry flaky scalp can breed hair loss. Hair loss and stress have also often been linked. Hair loss in women is often also linked to pregnancy, childbirth, hormonal imbalances and menopause.

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Top foods that can prevent hair loss

One of the simplest and most natural ways to prevent hair loss is by paying attention to your nutrition basket. Hair requires proper nutrition in the form of protein, iron, vitamins, omega-3, zinc, magnesium and selenium. Ensuring that your daily diet includes foods that are rich in these nutrients can help check your hair loss problems. Also, because nutrients from your food go to muscles and organs first, your hair and nails often end up getting a small share. So it is not only important to eat foods that prevent hair loss but also consume enough and a variety of these foods.

5 natural foods that prevent hair loss

Fish, eggs and beans

It is a commonly known fact that protein rich foods are good for your hair. But protein rich foods that are high in fats, like steaks, are no good. So choose your protein sources wisely. Leaner proteins like fish, chicken, eggs are good choices. For vegans, good choices include beans, soy, almonds and yoghurt.

Raisins

Raisins are a rich source of iron. Iron plays a significant role in manufacturing hemoglobin- the component of your blood that transports oxygen to your organs and tissues. Iron rich foods stimulate the production of hemoglobin and ensure that your scalp gets a good flow of oxygen rich blood to stimulate and promote hair growth. Dried fruits, like raisins, are hence a good choice. Also, Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron better. So, be sure to consume fruits like oranges, strawberries and lemons in addition to raisins and dried fruits to boost hair growth. Strawberries are also a rich source of silica and are thought o help prevent baldness.

Bean sprouts

Bean sprouts are an excellent source of silica. Silica, by itself may not prevent hair loss- but it helps the body to absorb the various vitamins that your hair needs. Without enough silica in your diet, your vitamins and minerals aren’t doing much good. Other good sources of silica include cucumbers, red and green bell peppers- Also remember that having these foods raw (rather than cooked) helps you derive more nutritional value.

Potatoes

Potatoes are another good source of silica. In addition, they also contain vitamin C, iron and magnesium. It can be a good substitute when you’re craving fast food. When you’re body is already fighting something unhealthy fast food or excessively spicy and sugary foods can wreak havoc? Simply cook your burger, bake some potato wedges, season them to go along and have a guilt-free bite! Applying potato juice on your hair also promotes hair growth.

Seafood

Seafood like shrimps and oysters supply you with a lot of zinc- a nutrient that plays a key role in managing the glands that attach to your hair follicles. A low zinc diet causes follicles to become weak and hair to fall out. However, also remember that excessive amounts of zinc can lead to hair loss- it is best to get your zinc from foods like red meats, poultry, mussels, shrimp, nuts and oysters rather than eat these foods plus take supplements.